Match Wits With Our Word Wizards
(Illustrated version of Word Wizards)
The Subjunctive Mood of Verbs
Select from each pair the verb or verb phrase that illustrates the proper
use of the subjunctive mood:
- For the test program, we desired that no test section bleed (be / was )
used.
- We suggest that a calibration of these conditions (should be / be )
included as part of the next test section calibration entry.
- It is recommended (to use m>4 / that m>4 be used ) to obtain
c>10.
- If it (was / were ) possible to be paid for overtime, I would
prefer that to receiving comp time.
- Note that the inequity (1.5.4) provides that the envelope (is / be ) a regular
surface.
- If I (were / was ) downloading shareware programs from the
Internet, I would be fearful of destructive viruses, such as Michelangelo.
- If effort (was / were ) as important as results, many would consider
themselves successful.
- The resolution attached to the flood-relief bill requires that in the event
of a shutdown resulting from the President's failure to sign the FY98
budget, the government (should be / be ) funded at 100 percent of the FY97 budget.
For an explanation of troublesome idiomatic prepostions, see Quirks of English.